Richard Fries Steps Down as MassBike Executive Director

Richard Fries will step down as executive director of the Massachusetts Bicycle Coalition, better known as MassBike. Having served as executive director for three years, Fries will retain a position on the organization’s Board of Directors.

Fries, 57, has accepted a position as director of cycling experience with Best Buddies International, which operates three charity cycling events.

“This has been without a doubt the most passionate and challenging and nourishing job of my life. The board, the members, the volunteers and notably the leaders of other advocacy groups have provided amazing guidance to me. Most important to me has been this amazing staff, which will be hard to leave,” said Fries. “Ultimately I had to do what was right for my family.”

Fries’ final day will be March 20. He will serve in an advisory capacity during the transition to new leadership. Deputy Director Tom Francis will serve as interim executive director.